Why Your New Tankless Water Heater Needs a Yearly Flush, Especially in Summerville, SC

If you’ve recently moved into a new home in Legend Oaks, Summers Corner, Cane Bay, Nexton, Watson Hill Tract, Wescott, The Ponds, or anywhere around Summerville, SC, congrats! Whether it’s your first home or a brand-new build, you’re probably enjoying modern perks like energy-efficient appliances, including that sleek tankless water heater.

But here’s something many new homeowners don’t know: your tankless water heater needs a yearly flush to stay in top shape. If you skip it, you could end up facing expensive repairs or even a total system failure.

Here in the Lowcountry, our water tends to be on the harder side, which means your system is even more prone to scale buildup. According to the 2024 Dorchester County Annual Water Quality Report, “Inorganic Contaminants, such as salts and metals, which can occur naturally in the soil or groundwater or may result from urban stormwater runoff, industrial or domestic wastewater discharges, oil and gas production, mining, or farming.”

What Does a Tankless Water Heater Flush Actually Do?

Tankless water heaters heat water on demand, making them efficient and space-saving. But over time, hard water minerals like calcium and lime build up inside the unit, especially in areas with sediment-heavy water (which we definitely have in the Lowcountry).

A professional flush clears out that mineral buildup before it starts to affect performance or damage components.

⚠️ How to Know It’s Time for a Tankless Flush

Here are warning signs that sediment has started to build up in your tankless system:

• Fluctuating or lukewarm water temperatures
• Lower water pressure at sinks or showers
• Strange noises like popping or rumbling from the unit
• Error codes or warning lights on your unit
• Higher energy bills even when your usage hasn’t changed
• Longer wait times for hot water

If you notice any of these, it’s time to schedule a flush as soon as possible. Book Mike’s Suncoast Plumbing now! Call or text 843-732-0244!

Some Homes May Need 2 Flushes Per Year

While a yearly flush is the standard, homes in areas with higher sediment or mineral content like parts of Legend Oaks, Summers Corner, Cane Bay, Wescott, and Watson Hill may benefit from twice-a-year maintenance.

Think of it like dental cleanings. Some people only need one a year. Others need two based on what’s going on in their environment. The same logic applies to your water heater.

Why Pay Now Instead of Later?

We know homeownership comes with a to-do list a mile long. But skipping your tankless water heater flush can lead to:

• $2,000–$4,000 or more in replacement costs
• Frequent repairs and part replacements
• ❌ Voided manufacturer warranties (some require yearly flushing)

In contrast, a yearly (or bi-yearly) flush is a small, affordable service that helps extend the life of your system and keep your water running hot and efficient.

Especially Important for New Construction Homes with Tankless Water Heaters

Homes in Legend Oaks, Summers Corner, Cane Bay, Nexton, The Ponds, Watson Hill, and other new developments often come with high-efficiency tankless units. That’s great, but “new” doesn’t mean “maintenance-free.”

In fact, we see tankless systems fail prematurely all the time simply because no one told the homeowner they needed to flush it annually. Don’t let that be you.

❓ How long does a tankless flush take?

A standard tankless water heater flush usually takes about 45 to 60 minutes.

This includes setup, the flushing process itself (typically 45 minutes of active descaling), and post-flush testing to make sure the system is running properly.

For homeowners, the process is quick and typically requires no disruption to your water service.

❓ Do I need a plumber to flush my water heater?

While it’s possible to flush a tankless water heater yourself, it’s highly recommended to hire a licensed plumber — especially if:

• Your system is under warranty (DIY work can void it)
• You’re not comfortable working with gas lines or electrical connections
• You want to ensure a thorough flush using the correct descaling agents

A professional plumber will also inspect your unit for early signs of wear, leaks, or damage — saving you money and stress in the long run.

Schedule Your Flush Today and Save!

Whether you just moved in or it’s been over a year since your last service, Mike at Suncoast Plumbing specializes in tankless water heater maintenance for homes in Legend Oaks, Summers Corner, Cane Bay, Nexton, Watson Hill Tract, Wescott, The Ponds, and beyond. Mike is offering a $50 off coupon for first maintenance flush! Grab that discount now!

Don’t wait until your water turns cold. Contact Mike at Suncoast Plumbing today to book your yearly maintenance and keep your tankless water heater running smoothly for years to come. Call or text 843-732-0244 or fill out the form below.